City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Next-Level Cancer Screening

Qlarity Breast Imaging brings a radiation-free, compression-free alternative to El Dorado Hills

For many women, scheduling a breast cancer screening feels like an emotional hurdle—one that comes with discomfort, anxiety, and sometimes even fear. The thought of cold compression plates, radiation exposure, and the uncertainty of results can be enough to deter some from making that crucial appointment. But what if breast cancer screening didn’t have to feel this way?

At Qlarity Breast Imaging in El Dorado Hills (part of True Health Center for Precision Medicine), the focus isn’t just on detecting breast cancer—it’s on caring for the women who walk through their doors. With a compassionate, patient-first approach and groundbreaking technology, Qlarity is transforming the way women experience screenings.

At the heart of Qlarity’s mission is a deep understanding of what women need in a medical setting: reassurance, comfort, and accuracy. Danielle Farias, Director & Lead Technician of Qlarity Breast Imaging, shares, “The FDA-cleared QTscan is a revolution in breast cancer screening. It’s radiation-free and compression-free and a similar imaging tool to an MRI. The scan sends ultra low-frequency sound waves through the breast tissue and generates a true 3D rendering of the breast for the radiologist to review.”

Unlike traditional mammograms, which can be especially challenging for women with dense breast tissue or implants (and sometimes murky for radiologists to interpret), the QTscan provides remarkably clear imaging, which stands to improve early detection rates without adding unnecessary stress for the patient. “The sensitivity of the QTscan is over 90% as opposed to a mammogram’s 47%, and the false positive rate is much lower than any other screening modality at only 11%,” Farias explains. This means fewer unnecessary biopsies and follow-up tests.

Many women come to Qlarity Breast Imaging looking for an additional opinion if an area of concern does appear to have suspicious qualities, or if it’s more seemingly benign. “One way we can determine this is through the scan’s unique doubling time, which does not exist with other screening modalities. If there is an area of concern that the radiologist wants to follow up on, then a recommendation to return in six months will be written on the report. Within that time frame, we can assess if the doubling time of the area of concern is within a benign or malignant rate, and if further evaluation is recommended or surveillance is appropriate,” says Farias.  

Farias also explains that “for women as young as 18 who have a family history of breast cancer, QTscan is a safe and proactive option that enables them to receive early monitoring without exposure to radiation at such an early stage in their lives.” For others, it’s a chance to take control of their health in a space that values their comfort and well-being. Women in the Folsom and El Dorado Hills communities may be surprised to learn that this type of imaging is available right in their own backyard. “Currently there are only eight clinics in the entire US that offer the QTscan,” says Farias. By bringing cutting-edge screening technology to this region, Qlarity makes it easier than ever for women in our area to stay on top of their health without unnecessary stress.

Walking into Qlarity Breast Imaging feels different than arriving for a standard screening mammogram. From the moment a woman arrives, she is met with warmth and understanding. There’s no crowded waiting room, no rushed process, no cold exam rooms—just a welcoming environment designed to ease nerves and encourage proactive care.

Farias explains the process. “Appointments last about an hour, beginning with a one-on-one conversation with me to discuss your breast health history. During the scan, the patient lies comfortably on their stomach as I guide the patient into the best positioning. A small magnet is then attached to the patient and they are slowly lowered into body-temperature water. The magnet connects to a rod to stabilize the breast while the scan captures detailed images using sound waves for a gentle, comfortable process. The scan itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes per breast, and results are typically available within one to two weeks. If an area of concern is identified, Qlarity ensures a personal follow-up with clear next steps. If all is stable, the patient can return in a year.” 

Too many women postpone breast screenings because of bad past experiences, uncertainty, or simple avoidance. But breast cancer doesn’t wait. “Screenings should never be a source of fear, especially when early detection saves lives,” Farias shares. “If concerns over side effects from traditional screening methods cause women to delay or avoid screening altogether, then its purpose is lost. The QTscan represents a new era in breast imaging—one where accessibility, comfort, and reliability empower women to take charge of their health.”

With a compassionate, patient-first approach and groundbreaking technology, Qlarity is transforming the way women experience screenings.

"Too many women postpone breast screenings because of bad past experiences, uncertainty, or simple avoidance. But breast cancer doesn’t wait. Screenings should never be a source of fear, especially when early detection saves lives."